Final answer:
A geostationary satellite is one with an orbital period of 24 hours, remaining over the same Earth location. To maintain this, it must orbit in the equatorial plane and at a specific radius where gravitational forces allow for a period equal to Earth's rotation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question you've asked pertains to the characteristics of geostationary satellites. These satellites are unique because they have an orbital period that matches the Earth's rotational period, hence remaining above the same point on the Earth's surface at all times which means all must have the same distance from Earth. They must satisfy specific criteria to maintain a geostationary orbit:
They must orbit in the equatorial plane, which allows them to stay in line with a fixed point on Earth.
The radius of the orbit is determined by the gravitational force and the need for the orbital period to be exactly 24 hours. The distance from Earth will vary depending on these factors, but it is consistent for all geostationary satellites.
The orbital period, or the time it takes to complete one orbit, must be equal to one Earth day, which is approximately 24 hours.
Although not inherently necessary for geostationary orbits, the satellite's speed and mass may be consistent due to the uniform orbital requirements, but these are not defining characteristics of geostationary satellites.
With these conditions met, geostationary satellites are invaluable for various applications, such as communications, weather monitoring, and broadcasting.